Who doesn’t love warm, fluffy donuts with a sweet cinnamon twist? In just a few simple steps, you can make cinnamon sugar air fryer donuts that will wow your friends and family. This quick recipe uses basic ingredients, and the air fryer makes them light and delicious. Let’s dive into the fun of creating these tasty treats that are sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– Cooking spray
Optional Toppings
– Additional cinnamon for coating
– Frosting or whipped cream
Gather these ingredients to make your cinnamon sugar air fryer donuts. They are simple and quick to prepare. You can find these items at any grocery store. Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference in taste.
I like to keep my pantry stocked with these essentials. This way, I can whip up these donuts anytime I crave something sweet. You can also customize the toppings. Add more cinnamon if you love the flavor. Or, try adding frosting for a special treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This step makes sure the donuts cook evenly. If you skip this, the donuts may not rise well.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the following:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix well until there are no lumps. This ensures every donut has great flavor.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix until smooth. This adds moisture and flavor to your donuts.
Combining Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; the batter should be a bit lumpy. This keeps the donuts light and fluffy.
Filling the Donut Pan
Lightly grease your donut pan with cooking spray. Fill each cavity about 2/3 full with the batter. This gives them room to rise without overflowing.
Cooking the Donuts
Carefully place the filled donut pan in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes. The donuts should be golden brown and firm. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Coating the Donuts
While the donuts cook, prepare your cinnamon sugar coating. In a shallow bowl, mix:
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Extra ground cinnamon
Once the donuts cool for a minute, roll each one in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. This step adds a sweet crunch to each bite.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Donut Texture
To get your donuts just right, avoid over-mixing the batter. This keeps them light and fluffy. Stir until the dry and wet ingredients are just combined. The batter should be a bit lumpy, not smooth.
Next, monitor the cooking time closely. Every air fryer is different. Start checking your donuts at 5 minutes. They should be golden brown and cooked through. A toothpick should come out clean when you test them.
Optimizing Flavors
Want to boost the flavor? Add more cinnamon to the batter. You can also try different extracts like almond or maple for fun twists. Mixing in flavored sugars can add a nice touch too. Consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Ensuring Even Cooking
To cook your donuts evenly, rotate the donut pan halfway through cooking. This ensures all sides brown nicely. If you notice some parts are cooking faster, this step helps fix that. With a little care, you’ll have perfect air fryer donuts every time!
Variations
Glazed Donuts
To make a simple glaze, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk. Stir until smooth. You can add a splash of vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor. For a twist, try lemon juice or maple syrup instead of milk.
Chocolate-Dipped Donuts
Adding chocolate makes these donuts even better. Melt your favorite chocolate, like dark or milk chocolate, in a bowl. Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the melted chocolate. For fun, sprinkle crushed nuts or sprinkles on top. Use chocolate chips or bars for melting.
Healthier Options
You can swap some ingredients for healthier choices. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Try almond milk or coconut milk in place of buttermilk. For a vegan option, replace the egg with a flax egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Donuts
To keep your leftover donuts fresh, place them in an airtight container. This keeps air out and moisture in. You can store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them. Just remember, donuts may dry out faster in the fridge.
Freezing Donuts
If you want to freeze your donuts, first let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour, then put them in a freezer bag. This method helps prevent them from sticking together. Donuts can freeze well for up to three months.
To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying. You can also heat them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your donuts, the best method is using the air fryer. It keeps them warm and crispy. Set your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and heat for about 2-3 minutes. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat them in short bursts of 10 seconds to avoid making them tough. Enjoy your warm, tasty donuts!
FAQs
Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, you can use a regular oven. The cooking time will change. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake for about 10-12 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick. Air fryers cook faster and use less oil.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make your own buttermilk easily. Mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes. This will give you a similar taste and texture.
How do I know when my donuts are done?
Look for a golden brown color. The donuts should rise nicely. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready. They should not be doughy inside.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can try other flours. Almond flour is a good gluten-free option. Whole wheat flour will add a nutty flavor. Just know that the texture may change a bit. You might need to adjust the liquid.
Do I need a special donut pan?
No, you don’t need a special pan. You can use a muffin tin instead. Just fill each cup about halfway. Shape your donuts by using a small round cutter in the center. This will give them a lovely shape.
You learned how to make delicious air fryer donuts using simple ingredients and steps. Remember to mix your wet and dry ingredients carefully to keep the texture right. You can add tasty toppings or try different flavors to make them special. Storing and reheating your donuts correctly will keep them fresh longer. With these tips, making donuts at home is easy and fun! Enjoy your fresh, tasty treats with friends and family.
